Potential for digital gerontological social work with older persons in South African residential facilities

Abstract

African social workers have not yet explored the potential of using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to render digital gerontological social work (DGSW) services. ICT holds potential for technology-assisted services when direct service delivery is impracticable. The study aimed to determine older persons’ (60 years and older) access to, use and acceptance of ICT. A quantitative study, operationalised through a cross-sectional survey design involved 73 (N=73) older persons in residential facilities in the City of Tshwane, South Africa, through a two-phase indirect and non-probability sampling strategy. Face-to-face surveys explored the participants’ sociodemographics, access to ICT, and platforms/applications used. With the Senior Technology Acceptance Model by Chen and Chan, the study determined older persons’ health contexts and abilities, and acceptance of technology across ten constructs. Participants mostly connect with mobile data using a mobile phone. Messaging, reading news, and social media are among the platforms used independently. Participants rated their health and abilities high and showed high acceptance of technology. Considered from a developmental social work framework, DGSW services are recommended, while respecting potential service users' means of accessing the internet, their preferred platforms, acceptance and attitude towards technology.